The article from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) website, titled “PAHO and Africa CDC strengthen collaboration to address access to essential medicines and vaccines,” emphasises a vital partnership aimed at improving access to essential medicines and vaccines. This collaboration signifies a commitment to enhance health outcomes in both Africa and the Americas.

Africa CDC and PAHO Partnership Agreement

On September 20, 2024, Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Africa CDC agreed to collaborate on equitable access to vaccines and health technologies during Africa CDC’s first official visit to PAHO in Washington, D.C.

PAHO and Africa CDC Collaboration Objectives

The partnership prioritises equitable access by enhancing regional regulatory, innovation, and production mechanisms to improve access to essential medicines and vaccines in Africa and the Americas. Furthermore, it aims to enhance regional manufacturing capacities through initiatives like the African Pooled Procurement Mechanism (APPM) and the Partnerships for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM). PAVM aims to empower African vaccine manufacturing to provide over 60% of the continent’s vaccine needs by 2040.

Key Areas of Cooperation

– Pooled Procurement Mechanism: PAHO will share its expertise on operationalising regional revolving funds. Therefore, supporting Africa CDC in implementing the APPM. This mechanism is intended to improve access to quality and affordable health products and promote local manufacturing.
– Regulatory and Production Strategies: The discussions focused on demand consolidation, planning, quality, and logistics. Further also strengthening regulatory and regional production strategies to improve access to essential medicines.
– Research and Innovation: Advancing research, innovation, and digital transformation of health systems to effectively address public health challenges.
– Emergency Response: The collaboration will build resilience by improving preparedness and response to health emergencies, including the ongoing Mpox outbreak. Africa CDC briefed PAHO on the Mpox continental response plan, which emphasises access to lifesaving vaccines.

Statements from Leaders

Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director, highlighted the objective of cultivating a more resilient region by enhancing regional manufacturing capabilities. Therefore, ultimately decreasing reliance on global interventions during crucial emergencies. On the other hand, Dr. Jean Kaseya, Africa CDC Director General, emphasised the significance of this partnership in advancing health outcomes through collaborative efforts.

Broader Strategic Priorities

The collaboration seeks to promote broader strategic priorities in both regions, with a focus on improving and safeguarding health. This includes exploring opportunities for south-south cooperation that can address health challenges and capitalize on the strengths of both regions.

In conclusion,this partnership aims to enhance health outcomes, access to essential products, and strengthen health systems in Africa and the Americas. The commitment to addressing access to essential medicines and vaccines reflects a strategic approach to global health collaboration.